The Prysmian Group currently have two cable laying vessels designed and built by VARD, with this new contract securing a third vessel at a value of approximately 230 million euros. Drawing from Prysmian’s two prior boats contracted with VARD, the third vessel represents an evolution in knowledge and experience. The first vessel, named Leonardo da Vinci, was delivered by VARD in 2021; the second vessel named Mona Lisa, is currently being built. Based on the quality and performance of the current ship, Prysmian is securing yet another contract thanks to the productive cooperation.
“As global leader in submarine cable business we are fully committed to support the development of greener and smarter power grids, enabling the energy transition. We are delighted to work once again with VARD and Fincantieri – leaders in the design and construction of state-of-the-art vessels for the offshore market – to strengthen even more our installation capabilities”
Hakan Ozmen, EVP Project BU at Prysmian Group.
The new ship is specifically built for advanced subsea operations and utilises the VARD 9–18 design. This newly designed vessel, which measures about 185 metres in length and 34 metres in width, will be outfitted with cutting-edge cable installation solutions, including three carousels with a combined capacity of 19, 000 tonnes. This will place the vessel among the highest cable loading capacity vessels on the market and allow for a quicker transit time from the factory to the site, improving project efficiency overall.
With a bollard pull exceeding 180 tonnes, the vessel can carry out intricate installation tasks including simultaneous cable burying and laying (up to 4 cables) using a range of ploughs, providing unrivalled offshore operation optimisation. By early 2027, the vessel will be in service and outfitted with cutting-edge DP3 positioning and seakeeping equipment.
“VARD’s size & speed, technology & our integrated global value chain, and close customer partnerships – like the one we have with Prysmian Group, gives both VARD and Prysmian significant competitive advantages through the delivery of the most advanced ships. We are happy to welcome Prysmian back to VARD for the design and build of yet another state-of-the-art vessel.”
Christian Utvik, SVP Sales & Marketing at VARD.
With a smaller environmental impact and a range of burying methods, such as heavy-duty ploughs and cutting-edge positioning and seakeeping devices, the cable layer is designed to carry out complex installation tasks.
“We are partnering with Prysmian once again to develop and put to work new marine business opportunities. Through this joint collaborative approach with customers, we explore and design new advanced vessels and solutions developing the business cases that make them good investments and enabling sustainable opportunities at sea. We are looking forward to once again having a good collaboration with Prysmian.”
Alberto Maestrini, CEO at VARD Group.
The vessel is designed by VARD Design in Ålesund, Norway. Ålesund, Norway-based Vard Design created the vessel’s design. VARD Shipyards Romania in Tulcea will construct the hull, while one of VARD’s shipyards in Norway will handle its final outfitting, commissioning, and delivery. The project also includes the high-tech subsidiaries of the Group, who are supplying solutions and equipment.
VARD Electro will provide a comprehensive electrical systems package, including product engineering, installation, integration, and commissioning, by leveraging its extensive experience as a system integrator. With an emphasis on optimising system stability and efficiency, the comprehensive package of SeaQ products includes a wide range of state-of-the-art technologies for power, control, bridge, and communication solutions. These technologies are designed to provide safe and sustainable operations at sea.
A complete power and propulsion system, including a battery-powered energy storage system, is included in the SeaQ package. With the help of the SeaQ ESS, hybrid operations at sea will be possible, leading to more fuel-efficient and emission-free operations. In order to provide an even better level of safety and integration of all the vessel systems, the vessel will also have the industry leading integrated SeaQ Bridge and a comprehensive SeaQ Automation system.
In order to provide a comfortable living and working environment onboard the vessel, VARD Interiors will provide modern interior solutions and a green HVAC R system.
Delivery of the cable layer is scheduled for Q4 2026.
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